Host, Hospitality ​/ Hotel ​/ Catering

La Bahia Hotel & Spa, 215 Beach Street, Santa Cruz, California, United States of America

Posted Friday, January 2, 2026 at 8:00 AM

Nestled along the Pacific Coast,
La Bahia Hotel & Spa
celebrates its dramatic setting where the tip of Monterey Bay touches Sana Cruz's coveted Main Beach. Steeped in the romantic beauty of Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, locals and travelers alike will savor globally influenced cuisine, cocktails and wellness rituals infused with the region's agricultural bounty and coast-cultured Spirit.

SUMMARY:

The
Host
is a professional who is a master at operational
efficiency
and delivering personalized attention. This role is responsible for managing reservations while creating unforgettable initial encounters for our guests. The Host innate sense of timing, discretion, and mastery of table management will elevate our guests dining experience from the very first interaction. By delivering
impeccable service
, the Hostess will uphold La Bahia Hotel & Spa’s service standards (inspired by Forbes) while elevating our beachfront property.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITY:

• Execute flawless greeting protocols with polished demeanor (standing posture, eye contact, personalized welcome)
• Master the restaurant's table map and server stations to optimize seating flow
• Coordinate with bussers/servers for VIP arrivals and special requests
• Remember and acknowledge returning guests with tailored recognition
• Manage Open Table/Res Diary with 100% accuracy
• Balance walk-in traffic with reservations while maintaining ideal table turnover
• Process last-minute changes with discreet professionalism
• Maintain waitlist with estimated timing transparency
• Communicate seating status to service team via silent signaling system
• Time seatings to kitchen capacity (consulting with chef expeditor)
• Present menus with proper orientation and lighting consideration
• Escort guests to tables with pacing adapted to guest mobility
• Maintain immaculate host stand organization (clean menus, straightened stationery)
• Uphold appearance standards (posture, uniform perfection, breath mints)
• Demonstrate wine list familiarity for preliminary beverage inquiries
• Maintain impeccable grooming standards, wearing the assigned uniform exactly as specified (proper fit, cleanliness, and presentation at all times
• Wear the official hotel lapel pin prominently as part of the uniform requirement, unless embroidered onto uniform
• Perform all other duties that may be assigned as needed by your manager

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• (2/3) years of experience in upscale dining host role, luxury hotel and/or resort preferred
• Physical stamina for continuous standing (5+ hours) with elegant posture
• Open Table/Res Diary expertise
• Fluent in English (additional languages highly preferred)
• Social intuition to assess guest moods/preferences
• Capable of maintaining composure during peak hours
• Comfortable in varying lighting conditions
• Capability to carry leather-bound menus (Up to 15lbs)
• Flexible to work in different shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

This role offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact the guest experience. If you are dedicated to personalized service, guest satisfaction, and enjoy working in a high-end atmosphere, we invite you to join our Food & Beverage team at La Bahia Hotel.

DISCLOSURE TO JOB APPLICANTS PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA CONSUMER PRIVACY ACT (CCPA)

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CATEGORY

EXAMPLES

BUSINESS PURPOSE

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